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SNY’S “NYI INTERACTIVE” – EMAIL VERSION
Submit your Qs now for Tuesday’s recording

by Chris Botta on January 31st, 2011 at 2:45 pm

Brian Compton and I will record our latest edition of “Islanders Interactive” at SNY studios on Tuesday, but this time there’s a twist. By popular demand, instead of phone calls, we will take your questions starting TODAY in the Comments thread of this post.

 

Here is how you can participate:

 

1. Please submit one question per reader, limiting it to 35 words of less (for the benefit of our production team and the graphics).

 

2. Including your name and town is required. Age and other details (season ticketholder?) are strictly optional, but appreciated.

 

Of course, if you see that someone has already asked your question in the Comments thread, please change to a different topic. I can take questions until 10:00 pm Monday.

 

Thank you so much for your participation. Brian and I really look forward to this segment.

 

Please post your name, town and one Islanders question of 35 words or less in Comments.

142 Responses to SNY’S “NYI INTERACTIVE” – EMAIL VERSION
Submit your Qs now for Tuesday’s recording

  1. avatar Dan L says:

    Dan from East Islip

    Assuming the Islanders get the first overall pick (or even the second) who do you think they a) should take and b) will take.

  2. avatar John from Valley Stream says:

    Which current Islanders NOT signed past this year are, in your opinion, part of the future here and which players should go. Names that come to mind are Konopka, Comeau, Martinek, Grabner, Parentaeu.

  3. avatar EAF says:

    Gene from Forest Hills:
    Please compare the Islanders 1st round selections the last 2 draft (Tavares vs Duchene and Nino vs Skinner). I think the Isles missed big time in both cases.

  4. avatar j.branny says:

    I see the Islanders hve brought up Ty Wishart today. What do you know of him and what are your expectations for him?

  5. avatar Tom from New Providence says:

    Although not a high priority, do you think it makes sense for the Islanders to send another message to the team by extending Zenon Konopka? He’s been a leader and would not break the bank. It would reward two guys who want to be here. His pride in wearing the sweater should be rewarded.

  6. avatar j.branny says:

    Oh, btw…Jim Branny from Worcester, MA

  7. avatar Rob from Franklin Square says:

    Assuming that Doug Weight will have a different role in the organization for next season, who do you feel will be wearing the “C”. Is it Streit? Or do we continue with youth and see it go to Okposo?

    Thanks Guys.

  8. avatar Michael Rotondo from Toronto says:

    Are the Islanders comfortable enough with their depth in the organization that they might be willing to trade their first round pick of this years draft for a top six forward?

  9. avatar mattyboy says:

    When Wiz was dealt here he relayed that his G.M said (paraphrasing) “Sorry, but you’ve been dealt to the Islanders.” Is it possible things are so bad that in addition to UFA’s steering clear we can now look forward to managers not wanting to deal with NYI out of respect for their player/relationship with agents? -Matty the Usher from East Meadow

  10. avatar Al says:

    Alan from Bayside:

    I have noticed that Anders Lee, Casey Cizikas, Jason Gregoire and Blake Kessel have all had solid seasons both on the NCAA and OHL levels this season, respectively, could you see any of the four making an impact on the Island over the next 2-to-3 seasons.

  11. avatar PotvinsCupsx4 says:

    Lou-Cape Coral Fl;
    Former season ticket holder, fan since ’74,
    Center Ice package, catch them 3 times in Florida and 2-3 times in NY per season.
    David Backes is an UFA agent and 26 years old, how much would the Isles need to throw at him to woo him to NY?

  12. avatar John says:

    John from London, ON

    Whom do you think should make the short list of potential coaching candidates for the team and which way do you think they will eventually go? Craig MacTavish, Ken Hitchcock, Lindy Ruff if he’s let go in Buffalo?

  13. avatar ppugs77 says:

    Pete from Brooklyn:

    Which way do you see the islanders going this year with the first round pick they have, defense or forward?

  14. avatar Tony F. says:

    Tony in CT. by way of Centereach;

    Why did we not resign John Erskine when we had the chance, he’s seems exactly what we need on defense?

  15. avatar valentino says:

    Valentino from Commack,

    Former season ticket holder. 42 years of age. How do you see the combination of NIFA taking over Nassau county finances and the Wilpons cash crunch play into the Isles future in either hempstead or queens?

  16. avatar Sal says:

    Given Isles current state of affairs:

    Can you project their realistic top3 D-Pairings for 2011-2012? (If healthy) How would that rank/fair amongst rest of NHL?

    (Streit, A-Mac, Hamonic, Eaton, Jurcina) sounds good especially if they add 1 more legit NHL defender.

    Your Thoughts?

    Thanks,

    Sal from Bethpage (fan since 1982).

  17. avatar Mikamakela24 says:

    Joe Babylon 35, “The Isles couldn’t even afford to resign Sutton and eat Bruno Gerveis contract, or keep Roleson and pay him the extra million, so what does it matter that no free agents want to be islanders if the payroll would never fit a 6 million dollar player?”

  18. avatar Corey says:

    Could Charles Wang be a canidate to be a 25% investor in the Mets, to use it as a Power Play against the Town of Hempstead?

    Corey – Westbury

  19. avatar Jared from Plainview says:

    The last time Wang was asked about a new arena at the lighthouse tournament, he said “my line is always open.” Don’t you think he owes it to the fans to take a more pro-active route to obtaining a new arena?

  20. avatar ClarkGillies says:

    Derek from Hicksville
    Former Season Ticket Holder
    How long of a leash does Garth have ? How long can he hide behind the rebuild smokescreen ?

  21. avatar Brian G says:

    Will The Islanders Sign NCAA Prospects Shane Sims & Brian Day, so they can continue their development at Bridgeport or at a lower level?

    Brian G – Hicksville, LI

  22. avatar Jerky says:

    Jon from Manhattan Beach, CA

    It’s clear that some players give 100% effort for 60 minutes every game and some do not (not to be confused with lack of talent). When will the coaching staff or management hold players accountable for their lack of effort on a consistent basis?

  23. avatar txdbog says:

    Kevin from Dallas;

    Post lockout the Isles have been the most injured team in hockey or very close to it. I just want your thoughts on what’s behind it, and how it effects the progress of the prospects.

  24. avatar JD says:

    I know its probably far fetched but any chance the Isles will attempt to sign Zach Parise to an offer sheet this summer?

    Steve from Manhattan

  25. avatar KaiserVanIslander says:

    Paul from Vinton Va

    Keep up the good work CB without you I’d be lost! Thanks to Brian as well nice to know someone else cares about the Isles!

    Could you give us a list of some UFA’s you think the Isles might go after. How bout some trades. Who’s out there and what are they asking for them?

  26. avatar Ryan says:

    Why haven’t the Islanders attempted to get a forward to help mature JT? i.e. Crosby & Lemuix, Stamkos with St Louis and Lecavlier. They have had the money for several seasons now but there are no signs of any proven veterans coming to help.

  27. avatar Tom says:

    BTW, Chris, not necessarily for the show: My friend Paul D and I met you and Lavvy at Champions after a Leafs game in November, 2001. You were chatting at the far (from the entrance) end of the bar. You were both very gracious with your time and I never got a chance to thank you, though I did thank Lavvy. I told Lavvy how pissed I was when he was hired, but how the style of play he had the Isles playing completely changed my mind. He said even he was surprised he was hired (*very* gracious of him), and we both laughed. But I made sure he knew how much the fans were enjoying the up-tempo style of play. You stood to the side and let me babble with Lavvy–as did my pal Paul. Thanks for the memories and opportunity. Wish we still had Lavvy. –Tom

  28. avatar Christian says:

    Christian from Danbury CT

    What are the options for the Islanders staying in NY? Is Nassau now the only option left considering the Wilpons’ financial issues and the arena in Brooklyn being too small?

  29. avatar JB says:

    Joe from Staten Island. Former ticket package holder. All said and done, 2015. Is this team going to be in the NY area or somewhere in Canada?

  30. avatar Phil Corso says:

    Phil Corso – Lake Ronkonkoma

    Season ticket holder for years 1-2 of the rebuild

    What kind of role do you see best-fit for the soon-to-retire Doug Weight? He’s expressed commitment to the organization, but what position would he be most likely to fulfill when the day comes?

  31. avatar Styles15 says:

    Patrick from West Hempstead, NY (STH)

    Hey CB,

    Obviously, from your earlier posts, you thought signing Matt Moulson was an important move for the Islanders. Statistically, Moulson puts up good numbers and will contribute to the success of the team. But does his signing have unforeseen benefits? In other words, even though Moulson is not a NHL star, do you think Moulson’s three year “vote of confidence” signing will convince middle level talent players, like Moulson, to give the Islanders a shot?

  32. avatar glenn from smithtown says:

    Hey guys,
    If you can look toward next year, what kind of optimism could you provide that given the lack of free agent interest, this team is going to compete for the playoffs next year? Also, how good do the experts around the league think Kevin poulin has a chance to be?

  33. avatar matt says:

    Matt from New Paltz

    So the Isles are the least desirable team to play for. Garth has already stated that he can’t get top free agents to sign here. I know this is very, very unlikely, but just a hypothetical situation. What would happen if the Isles, or any teams for that matter, inability to sign any top FA’s kept them from reaching the cap floor?

  34. avatar Richard says:

    Richard from Forest Hills

    Do you think the Islanders will consider trading Rob Schremp? He seems to be hurting Josh Baileys development at center.

  35. avatar StevieL says:

    Steve from Sayville!
    After watching the All-Star event, I was interested to see that the early reviews for Cam Fowler were glowing. Mckenzie went as far as to call him a future “Superstar” in this league! He is favorably being compared to Niedermeyer! Since he is doing great at a young age and obviously living up to his pre-draft hype, What Happened?? Why did his stock drop at the draft, and how did Garth possibly pass on the type of D-man that we all know we needed? Sounds like another miss to me!!

  36. avatar Craig Dixon says:

    Rumor has it that the Islanders are in the works for introducing a third jersey for the 2011-12 season. With all of the bad Isles jerseys in the past, why would they open up the doors for more criticism once they finally got it right?

  37. avatar Lane from Manalapan NJ says:

    Why was Kevin Poulin censored by the team from announcing his starts on Twitter, but Grabner is allowed to tweet that he is going out to get drunk?

  38. avatar MIKE says:

    Mike from Massapequa now in Manhattan.

    Guys, do you think Garth will make a play for Zach Parise.
    If so, do you think he’d be willing to play here given he’s friendly with Okposo and knows the “upside” of this team.

  39. avatar Anthony says:

    Anthony from Floral Park
    I am sick of the building excuse that Snow says is the reason FA’s dont sign here. The building was the same in 2002 and quite a few above avg. players signed here, Yashin (signed ext after trade), same with Peca, Aucoin, Osgood (reported and loved it here) and more i am forgetting. CB and Brian, do you feel this is another smokescreen by our GM to NOT spend money? What GM knocks his own facilities, the time MAY come when he actually wants FA’s to come.

  40. avatar Frank from Hicksville says:

    Comeau, Gervais, Schremp, and Hillen will all be restricted free agents. None of these players have shown more than a flash good play the last two years. Even though there aren’t obvious replacements in the AHL, is it time to move on without some of these players?
    Comeau has been the biggest disappointment because he has a good shot, but terrible hockey sense.

  41. avatar Hock says:

    Bob from Sayville
    Fan since 1975

    Who do you think would be an ideal linemate to help bring out Tavares’ full potential and vice versa?

  42. avatar BrianF says:

    Brian 23 from West Islip
    Michael Grabner has had a lot of success on the ice lately, including the all star game. However People seem to forget he is still a very young player and a rookie. Do you see him as a player that islander fans could get excited about for the future? Why hasn’t he been mentioned in the rebuild plan?
    Thanks for everything Chris

  43. avatar AZS says:

    Adam from Great Neck

    Any chance that Wang will purchase the 20-25% of the Mets that is up for sale? Could him purchasing that percentage help pave the way for the Isles moving to Queens in a joint venture with the Wilpons?

  44. avatar Isles39 says:

    Danny West Haven CT
    Thank you guys very much for everything you do. My question is Josh Bailey in consideration for being traded? there has been alot of rumors on blogs and i wanted your take thanks again.

  45. Lee. New York, NY

    Seeing Billy Jaffe on Hockey Night Live Saturday reminded me how much I miss him. Your thoughts on Butch Goring’s job so far and if Denis Potvin would’ve been a better choice?

  46. avatar gary9-19-22 says:

    Gary from Old Bethpage:

    The signing of Moulson was a big positive step for the fans. What is the next move/step/event that would show fans that we are seriously moving in the right direction as a franchise?

  47. avatar L.J. says:

    L.J. from Destin, FL:

    Does the Mets ownership situation have any effect on a potential Isles move to Queens in the future?

  48. avatar rob76 says:

    Rob Greenlawn, NY

    Do you think that a top 4 pick is imperative this draft? It seems that there are four “studs” in the draft and a big dropoff after that. If they,like last season, fall out of bottom four, should they trade the pick?

  49. avatar Chris says:

    Chris Governara, NY
    23, College (Loudville) (To as many home games as I can)

    Hey Chris. You know the entire NHL looks at the New York Islanders as a joke. What is something Mr.Snow or Mr.Wang could do to help bring hockey back to the Islanders? What could we do to get some respect around the NHL? Thank-you.

  50. avatar JimfromStJames says:

    Jim from St James (now Shirley, NY ) far enough to wish the games started at 8pm.

    As a fan of the NHL, I’ve noticed that other owners don’t usually give the fans notice for all that happens with a franchise.
    Do you think Wang owes the fans an explaination for what has gone on with the Franchise? or that he needs to explain every step?

  51. avatar Orange&Blue says:

    Rob from Port Jeff/ Fan since 1980

    When is Garth going to obtain a forward with special skills to play with John Tavares?

  52. avatar Peter says:

    Peter from Newton, NJ

    Has any team in recent memory played so many games without a Captain? I watch a lot of hockey, and I rarely see another team playing without a Captain. Am I overestimating the importance to a team of having a Captain on the ice during games?

  53. avatar Frans Dish says:

    Pete from Franklin Square, NY

    Do you guys share the same concern as I do for Bailey? Beginning of the year he looked like a stud but, now I don’t even notice him on the ice. Which Bailey do you see for years to come?

  54. avatar Matt from LI says:

    Do you know if it is spring training yet?

  55. avatar Nick Iuliucci (Manhattan) says:

    I think Blake Comeau has the worst hockey sense in the history of the game. What do you think?

  56. avatar Peter says:

    If Franz Nielsen is considered the second most under-rated player in the league AND he is considered the Islanders best two way player by many THEN why does he not get to play on the top line with better talent?

  57. avatar 25yearfan says:

    Chris,

    Will you ever interview the building directly to expose whether it is really so bad, or just misunderstood? Would make some compelling footage to see you aiming a mic at the building, then getting the inevitable stone wall of silence to every question….

    Joe (aka 25yearfan)

  58. avatar Mavnyc says:

    Patrick from Glendale

    When are you going to inform the public about the real reason why the Islanders cant get Free Agents, which is Wang ?????

  59. avatar billy says:

    Billy,30,winnipeg

    Hey guys, please comment on Bailey, he has played about 10 great games this year, but most of the time he looks lost. There’s other players his age or younger that are more successful, why is he having more problems than they are?

  60. avatar John from Atl says:

    John from Atlanta GA; formerly from Hicksville;

    Brian made several comments last time that the Isles needed to make a move this summer. How? Since any top line UFA doesn’t want to come here and any trade for a top player could easily result in another, Trevor Linden, Kirk Muller, Ryan Symth or Nabokov situation?

  61. avatar Islesfan in Vancouver says:

    Tom in Vancouver, B.C.

    Bailey looks lost along the boards while playing as a winger. I believe that he should be put back at his natural position in the middle where he shone early this season, and then again in Bridgeport. If schremp is occasionally scratched, why not give Bailey a few games back in his natural position and see if it’ll spark him?

  62. avatar sean says:

    So what’s gonna happen with a.new building. He can stay til 2015 and then say goodbye or is there something that Wang has a plan we don’t know about. Is he gonna see if Murray gets back in in the next election.

  63. avatar DC2NY says:

    Doug from DC,

    Players like Casey Cizkas and Anders Lee are having far superior seasons to Brock Nelson and the Kirill’s. Is it simply a matter of being drafted later so therefore they can’t be as good prospects? Shouldn’t production count more then “skills”?

  64. avatar Tom says:

    Tom, hopeful fan from East Rockaway, LI

    Has there been any news coming out of the Town of Hempstead about a new arena? Our team is being suffocated and it would be devestating to see them leave

  65. avatar CM says:

    Carlos from Edmonton, AB.
    Have you attempted to get CW on SNY? Whether CW likes it or not he needs to address the image problem the Isles have. I feel this image problem greatly influences our on ice product. Not to mention lack of attendance due to some of it in protest. Asking players how they feel makes no difference because they would never admit this. As a fan I hate defending the front office decisions. If the isles were winning its one thing but were not.

  66. avatar Quez says:

    Hey guys…Joe from Malverne.
    Is this the year, (at the deadline or at the draft) when we part with some assets, in order to aquire some top talent? There’s a certain fella in Calgary that could be our Captain and even help recruit UFA’s to help JT.

  67. avatar MilburyRuinedMyLife says:

    Michael from Los Angeles…via Brooklyn: As a former inside man, can you tell us how much attention the organization pays to fan opinion, be it on this GREAT site or on Islandermania or the HFBoards? And, if they are listening, how much does it factor into their decision making?

  68. avatar Mond says:

    Ray from Massapequa.

    There are no stadiums being built right now for a hockey team. If they won’t play in the Coliseum, will they even have a choice but to leave NY? As we all know, it takes a while to build plus all the red tape.

  69. avatar Tom , Long Island says:

    Now that Snow is 4 yrs into the rebuild, Do you think he starts dealing some of the young players that haven’t lived up to expectations ?

  70. avatar Dan from Westchester says:

    Is Captain Jack back next year? Or will they actually attempt to lure an NHL head coach?

  71. avatar Eric says:

    Eric 19 from Hicksville. Been and isles fan since 2005. What are the chances the isles trade for an overplaid player or player who is stuck in a long contract. Since the isles cant bring a free agent they have to do some trading. Also what are the chances the isles trade there top 5 pick for a veteran player?

  72. avatar The New Isles GM says:

    Chris,

    Can you and Brian come up with your own list of the 3 most important things Islanders management MUST do this upcoming off-season. Just curious if your answers differ. Would love to hear what you guys come up with.

    Kevin, Islip – NY
    26 Years Old

  73. avatar Mike from Bethpage says:

    Just an idea that I thought would resurrect the franchise and bring some spark back to the fans and the players around the league. The idea, or should I say dream, would be for a group of ex islanders to buy into ownership either 100% or minority ownership with Wang. Would be interesting and would help keep the franchise where it belongs.

  74. avatar Steve says:

    Steve from LI:

    Do you think a mutually beneficial opportunity could arise for Wang if he partners with the Wilpons? Say Wang buys the 25% of the Mets, and he and the Wilpons split revenue on a new Flushing Arena.

  75. avatar Mike from Philly says:

    Mike from Philadelphia (formely from Floral Park)- With Garth Snow publically stating that he cannot convince free agents to sign here, don’t you think it is time that Garth Snow starts working the phones and try to get an impact player through trade?

  76. avatar HilbertSnipe says:

    AJ Siringo from Bohemia, Long Island, NY. UMass-Amherst student & club roller player (junior.)

    Hey Chris and Brian,

    Being a student at UMass, I get to see Blake Kessel play often. He is in his third year and has put up very modest numbers as UNH’s “go-to” blueliner on a strong squad. Will we see him in Bridgeport in a year or so?

    Thanks for everything,
    AJ Siringo

  77. avatar Rish31 says:

    Do you think after seeing the success of young dynamic skaters like Matt Duchesne and Jeff Skinner, the Isles will look for someone like that in this draft ie. Ryan Nugent-Hopkins or another smooth skating defenseman like Ryan Murphy?

  78. avatar Brian lounsbury says:

    Do you think Kevin poulin could be a future goalie for the islanders or is he just a prospect that will be traded?

  79. avatar Anthony says:

    Anthony from Manhattan
    Why is Matt Martin not on one of the top three lines? He is always noticed when he gets on the ice. Don’t you think getting 8 min a night could hurt his growth?

  80. avatar isles71 says:

    Sam from Atlanta (Port Washington)

    Has Uwe Krupp name come up as possible coach candidate? Young, energetic, players coach (but tough & disciplined), great with the young talent and has been a cup winner and former Islander. Think he would be great!

  81. avatar Blizzard says:

    Considering the poor financial and political climate in Nassau County do you think its possible for the Islanders to move east and thrive in Suffolk county?

  82. avatar Kevin from Babylon, NY says:

    Islander players suffered an abnormal # of injuries the last few years vs. other teams. Snow stockpiled experienced Dmen this past off season and it still wasn’t enough. Why so many boo boos?

  83. avatar Brian Feig from Queens says:

    Do we add any big name free agents this summer? We dont need any more doug weights and definately dont need anymore draft picks. We need one or two legitimate nhl ready players and i think we can contend for a 4 or 5 seed. Thoughts?

  84. avatar Daryl says:

    Daryl in Winkler MB
    Why was Bailey rushed back? Wouldn’t the balance of the season at the bridge have been a part use of season?

  85. avatar dg putney says:

    greetings from Vermont, from a once upon the time original season ticket holder, still following the team on Direct TV
    What would you do to get more fans in the coliseum
    not counting a winning team

  86. avatar 25yearfan says:

    Joe from East Islip
    Please interview the building to expose whether it is really so bad, or just misunderstood. Would make some compelling footage to see you firing questions then getting the inevitable stone wall of silence.

    (Sorry I goofed up the format before – still doubt this will ever get read, but please do the “interview” some time.)

  87. avatar Matt from Holtsville says:

    Would it be a good idea for the Islanders to target; Alexei Kovalev, and Teemu Selanne? (Despite their age) For the power play, and their experience.

  88. avatar Bob says:

    Hey guys. I’m a 44 year-old former season ticket holder from Holbrook NY.

    Question- Hasn’t Wang already gotten the ok for a refurbished/new arena, minus the mega real estate deal he’s looking for that comes along with it?

  89. avatar Priest says:

    Mike from Ontario

    Do you think Kenny Jonsson deserves to be honoured by the team in some way? If so, will he, or will he be “punished” for playing in an era that many would like to forget?

  90. avatar Swan says:

    Aaron from Los Angeles (via Dix Hills). Long time season ticket holder, until this year.

    A question for both. Fondest hockey-related memory?

  91. avatar Burty says:

    Barry Costello, Franklin Square
    CB, NABAKOV QUESTION…
    Can you clarify what exactly we can do with Nabakov, since we will have him under contract for next year. If he waives his No-Trade Clause can we trade him whenever or does this process make him Untradeable?? Clearly He does not want to play for the Islanders, but we may be able to get something good for him because how cheap he will be and his great track record.

  92. avatar D in BIG D says:

    Darren,41 (formerly of Lake Ronkonkoma)Dallas,Tx Why is the success of the Dallas Stars team not being used as a measuring stick by the owner or the media as to whether Garth is a competent GM or not?Both have $ issues.

  93. avatar Bryan says:

    Bryan from Valley Stream

    With the Islanders continued troubles signing free agents can you see them making a move for a veteran at the deadline with a few years left on his deal. A guy like Robyn Reghr comes to mind, although I think he has a no trade cause.

  94. avatar Chris says:

    Chris from Lynbrook

    If Poulin continues to progress the way he has and develops into a legit #1 NHL goalie will the Islanders have the guts to suck up DiPietro’s contract and let him play back up for the next umpteen years? Also is DP mature enough to accept that role?

  95. avatar Peter says:

    Peter from Lindenhurst

    Jeff Skinner has almost matched nino’s goal output, while playing in the pros compared to the juniors. Josh Bailey is not progressing, just becoming more inconsistent. Is there an issue with the islanders drafting? Or will these players live up to their high draft status eventually?

  96. avatar Rob says:

    What are the restrictions concerning Nabokov after the season? Could they trade him at the draft, the off season or next season or would he still go through waivers?

  97. avatar Rob says:

    by the way, 19 from hicksville, season tickets since the dubie poke check miracle season

  98. avatar matt says:

    Matt from Valley Stream

    the NHLPA Poll showed the islanders, Oilers, and Leafs were among the least desirable places for players to play. clearly showing that its about winning and not about buildings, will any reporter bring that up to Snow or Wang?

  99. avatar bossy22 says:

    Greg from PEI, Canada

    As Bob MacKenzie has menioned..what do you feel the chances are of Snow packaging prospects and picks to bring in a couple of impact players?

  100. avatar Rob says:

    Rob from Providence, RI (grew up in Middle Island, NY)

    (As a deterrent to future players doing what Nabokov did) Could/would the league create a rule in which the second claimant would either forfeit a pick (say 2nd) or give it as compensation to the first claimant?

  101. avatar Isles fan in CA says:

    Tom from Sacramento, CA by way of Islip, 39 years old.

    Can you address the rumors of building an arena next to the LI Ducks complex in Central Islip?

  102. avatar Stumpy32 says:

    Mike from Brooklyn

    We always talk about how potential FAs will have to be overcompensated to play here. We can’t be the first team to require this to get anyone to sign. What’s the past track record for how much more we’d have to pay than a more desirable team? Is there one based on a comparable player signing with a less desirable team and a more desirable team?

  103. avatar DC says:

    What would be a reasonable offer to send Zach Parise this summer and like all my fellow islanders fans, do you think he could be THE significant piece of the puzzle to our organizations success?

  104. avatar streit02 says:

    This has been asked in parts, but i wanted your opinion on the Islanders future as far as the young guys and prospects. We are so high on a lot of these kids for good reason, but are they that much better or even better at all than most other team’s prospects? It seems like talent is pouring in more than ever at the draft now and late 1st rounders and 2nd rounders are making huge impacts already from recent drafts. So will the Islanders be able to become a powerhouse with these kids or will we just be competing in the middle of the pack with the rest of the team’s maturing prospects?

  105. avatar Staten Islander says:

    Don from Staten Island, fan since Zack’s dad scored in ’75…

    What veterans do you think they can lure here to help mentor the kids next year?

  106. avatar Tom D. says:

    Tom D, Wayne, NJ, age 52. Former season ticket holder.

    Chris,
    Are you aware of the Islanders ever considering retiring John Tonelli’s #27?

  107. avatar Mike says:

    London, Ontario

    Can you do a piece on why players like Weight and Streit like playing for the Islanders and is there anything they and other key young guns like Tavares and Okposo can do to help spread the word that the organization is headed in the right direction? I see a lot of bashing by media and fans who really don”t know the facts.

  108. avatar Butchie P. says:

    get zack parise on the team this summer an they’ll be able to sign a hard hitting defense man, and a center.Bossy thre purest shooter to play should be helping the youngsters in shooting instead of talking people to lunch, we have alumni we should try using these assets instead of hiding them

  109. avatar TimQ says:

    Tim from Stillwater, MN (LI transplant) – Sold t-shirts at the cup parades on Hempstead Tpke. and now watch on Center Ice

    Who are the one offensive player, defensive player, and coach that Snow should be targeting if he truly has no financial restrictions in improving his hockey team?

  110. avatar okpososcores21 says:

    Brian From miller place longisland

    Giving the current circumstances with the team and wangs inability to woo/overspend to sign a few legit forwards, What do you see wangs future actions with the team. They’ve created a young core with no support when do you expect wang to go all out and break the bank if ever. If he doesnt spend the money why does he not want to sell?? thnx

  111. avatar okpososcores21 says:

    Do you think he actually thinks he can build a winning team from within without ufa help.

  112. Jason in Rockville Centre

    Thanks so much Chris and Brian for doing this!

    This is not a knock on Snow, but I don’t think he can possibly be out there doing the proper scouting needed for the crop available in this year’s draft. Especially without Janks. My hunch is the pick has the intentions of being traded. Can you speculate which teams would be eagerly looking to obtain a top 5 pick this year?

  113. avatar bigdally mac says:

    Dallas MacDonald
    Sydney, Nova Scotia, Canada
    Fan since 1982
    Do you think it is time to overpay a few players to come in next year (one year contracts), to buy time for the young players like de Haan, Martin and Nino to develop properly in the AHL or Jr?

  114. avatar bm says:

    Brian, 34 from Babylon. Former season ticket holder but had to give them up after 5 yrs due to a change in work hrs. I was wondering what you thought of possibly trading the 1st round pick and a player for a 1st line center to relieve JT of the pressure of being the go to guy at such a young age.

  115. avatar Dave says:

    Hi chris,
    I HAVE 2 QUESTIONS

    1.Do you think that mr wang has any interest in the mets or the mets orginzation reaching out to the islanders?

    2. Do you see the islanders being activeon draft day and off season on trading or signing players?

    PS. My cousin Anthony C and his friend was in newsday about a month ago…supportive of you…great in site and updating us on all the islanders…hope soon they reinstate you~!

    Dave from East meadow

  116. avatar themass says:

    Angelo From Lititz Pa, fan since 1989.

    How much longer can the Isles afford to be handcuffed in goal. Most #1′s are expected to play every night in a pinch, and obviously DP is unable to do so. He’s my favorite player, and he is improving month to month, but I can’t see him putting up 65+ games a year

  117. avatar Diane says:

    George from Ohio

    Is it possible Josh Bailey is looking for a change of scenery?

  118. avatar Domenic Longo says:

    Just a quick question CB … Since he has a scoring touch, why not get Grabner some pp time on the first unit ???

    Domenic Longo
    Middle Village NY

  119. Killer from Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, Fan since 1979

    Brian Compton and I had a discussion a few weeks back on Twitter about this: Who would most Isles fans want to go without for a long stretch – Okposo or Tavares? BC had Okposo, I had Tavares. I think Tavares is more critical to this team’s success than KO is, while also acknowledging KO’s great overall contributions. Chris – please let us all know who you think is more valuable NOW to the Isles. Great job with Isles Interactive, fellas – keep up the good work!

  120. avatar Mark from Quebec City says:

    Is there any reason to believe that in the foreseeable future, Charles Wang will be willing to spend the money necessary to turn this team into a perennial contender?

  121. avatar Mark from Quebec City says:

    Mark from Quebec City

    Is there any reason to believe that in the foreseeable future, Charles Wang will be willing to spend the money necessary to turn this team into a perennial contender?

  122. avatar gordy lane says:

    Hi CB and BC
    Dan from Stony Brook. Been a long time fan. Watching every game there seems to be a lack of calls going in the Islanders favor. I know the refs miss calls in every game but there have been many obvious calls (sticks to the face) that have not been called and maybe that is the way it goes when the team is not that good. Why do you think that is?

  123. avatar Brian from Massapequa says:

    Brian, Massapequa, 39, Former Full Season Ticket Holder. Have attended 14 games this season.

    Do you see the organization doing anything to improve the arena this summer beyond a coat of paint? Perhaps new comfortable seats for patrons?

  124. avatar Neologizer says:

    Keith from NYC

    We all know the Isle lose money even though player payroll is as low as it can go. But other then that there is little perspective on how much it actually costs to runs Can you put perspective on the rest of the cost of running the franchise and how those expenditures are either on par or less then other clubs

  125. avatar Cold Spring Harbor says:

    Glenn from Huntington Village – Season Ticket Holder 1973- 1979 and 2001-present

    Maybe it is time for another 20 year break on being a season ticket holder? What are your favorite 5 moments of the last ten seasons. Mine are the Shawn Bates penalty shot, Eric Cairns Toronto game 6 fight, any Steve Webb body check, Dubie’s magical Easter and Al Arbour Night and that’s about it.

  126. avatar jt27 says:

    Jane from Huntington. Was at a bar and Isles beat the Rangers and I cheered and a male Ranger fan punched me in the face. Do you think that JT’s broken foot this offseason slowed his skating development. He definitely seems a lot stronger on the puck this season and he is never going to have Grabner’s speed (that would be scary if he did) but from everything you hear he is a hard worker and he wants to be the very best he can be. Would you say that is the weakest part of his game?

  127. avatar Ryan V. says:

    I have heard Garth Snow say time and time again that he will not make a move for the sole purpose of making a move. But let’s be honest, the needs are many. Fans are restless and most importantly the team needs a reason to get people in the seats. Do you think that this year he gives in to the pressure and makes a big splash during the offseason?

  128. avatar Matt says:

    Should The islanders really work hard to try and sign him he is from smithtown?

  129. avatar Ryan V. says:

    PS – I’m from Smithtown and I probably went over 35 words. LOL

  130. avatar Brother Rat says:

    CB & Brian, thanks for the opportunity!

    Q: Can you please explain this NHL/Stan Lee Guardian campaign to me? What sort of fans is this meant to attract? And why can’t the Islander Guardian have super powers of rezoning and traffic mitigation?!

    Blake, orig. from Wantagh

  131. avatar Steve from CT says:

    Do you think Josh Bailey gets dealt at the deadline? He seems to be a bust.

  132. avatar Scott says:

    Scott from Manhattan. Why are the great Islanders (Boss, Trots, Potvin, et al) so marginalized? Example: recent THN article suggesting Lidstrom is the greatest #5.

  133. avatar Roger Sebastian says:

    Why don’t the Islanders try and sign more undrafted free agents out of college? Ottawa plucked Bobby Butler out of UNH and he is doing phenomenal. Pat Cannone of LI is a good, playmaking two-way center, and two of his teammates Andy Miele and Carter Camper (who skated at rookie camp in 09) are #1/#2 in the nation in scoring. No risk on guys like that.

  134. avatar Roger Sebastian says:

    Also, Roger from EI

  135. avatar Islebethere4u says:

    Hi CB, great job as usual. My question is, now that we all know no one wants to play here, what are the top 3 reasons why. We can only speculate, but with nearly half the players polled saying they wouldn’t go near the Oilers or the Islanders, (Not really shocking) there must be reasons. I think a pole of those same players asking why would be even more telling rather than just the where. Let the Players themselves justify any alleged rumors as to why instead of the media and their spins. (And I don’t mean give them a multible choice giving them the answers. Let them say it in their own words why they don’t want to be here.)

  136. avatar Scott says:

    I think Poulin should start next year and DP should be the back up. This reduced the chance DP gets injured and Poulin looks like he’ll be really good. What’s the chance of this happening?

    Scott
    Freehold NJ

  137. avatar Paul from Mt. Sinai says:

    What are the chances of Mr. Wang and the Wilpons reaching some kind of ownership agreement regarding both teams as well as real estate?

  138. avatar Irish Isle says:

    Chris – Lynbrook
    What prospects do you think make the Islanders next year? At the start of the season? During the course of the year?

    Keep up the great work

  139. avatar robert says:

    robert from queens. former season ticket holder and fan since 74. what do you feel is the deadline for wang to announce his future plans before 2015 to have a new arena built if he plans to stay in the n.y. area.

  140. avatar King says:

    Ryan from Brooklyn
    With all the news surrounding players voting Long Island one of the most undesirable places to play and players accepting less money to play else-where, how does Garth even begin to sign UFA’s?

  141. avatar mark alberti says:

    Chris
    according to Milbury, Its very tough to sign free agents to Long island cause LI does not have the sunshine of LA, The cache of NYC, and the passion for hockey like Canada” If thats the case why dont the Islanders move to Queens and become a NYC/LI team like the Mets?…..Why would they even want to stay on Long Island?? New Arena in Queens, LIRR availability, bright lights of NYC

  142. avatar Max 19, Austin, Texas says:

    I know I missed the 10 pm deadline on this. Considering attendance and keeping the team on Long Island is a factor here, instead of trading young players/picks to bring in players further along and jeopardizing the rebuild (like the Luongo and Jokinen trade) why don’t the Islanders abandon the trap and the boring brand of hockey it produces and play faster paced games to keep fans coming back?